Mount Cabot
4,170 ft | 2 trails | New Hampshire
4,170 ft
2 routes
Moderate
NH 4000-Footer
About Mount Cabot
At 4,170 feet, Mount Cabot ranks among New Hampshire's celebrated 4000-Footers—a collection of 48 peaks that challenge and inspire hikers throughout the Northeast. This moderate summit offers a quintessential White Mountain experience.
Popular Routes
The most popular route, **Bunnell Notch Trail**, covers 10.4 miles and is rated Moderate. Standard route to Cabot with historic fire tower cabin.
Peak Bagging
**Extend Your Adventure:** Mount Waumbek lies just 5.0 miles away, making it an excellent addition for ambitious hikers looking to bag multiple summits.
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Mount Cabot?
Most routes on Mount Cabot take 5-7 hours round trip. The most popular trail is 10.4 miles with Moderate difficulty. Start early, especially on weekends when parking fills quickly.
Is Mount Cabot hard to hike?
Mount Cabot is rated Moderate. At 4,170 feet, expect challenging terrain above treeline with potential for rapid weather changes. Proper footwear and preparation are essential.
Do I need a permit to hike Mount Cabot?
No hiking permit is required for Mount Cabot. However, parking fees may apply at trailheads (typically $3-5/day for WMNF or state parks). A WMNF parking pass covers most White Mountain trailheads.
What is the best trail to hike Mount Cabot?
The most popular route is the Bunnell Notch Trail, offering Standard route to Cabot with historic fire tower cabin..
When is the best time to hike Mount Cabot?
The best hiking season for Mount Cabot is late May through October. Summer and fall offer the best conditions, though expect crowds on weekends. Winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience.
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow above 3000ft until May
summer
June - August
Best weather, occasional afternoon thunderstorms
fall
September - November
Peak foliage late Sept, early snow possible in October
winter
December - February
Full winter conditions, extreme cold and wind above treeline
Winter Gear Checklist
- Snowshoes/crampons
- Insulated boots
- Balaclava
- Hand/toe warmers
- Emergency bivy
Tip: Winter hiking requires specialized skills and gear. Never hike alone. Check avalanche conditions for steeper terrain.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- ⚠️ ALPINE ZONE: Weather changes rapidly. Turn back if conditions deteriorate.
- Winter conditions in effect - full mountaineering gear required
- Hypothermia risk - temperatures 20-40°F colder at summit
- Short daylight hours - carry headlamp
- Trail markers may be buried under snow
Turn-Around Time
2:00 PM recommended for summit
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Mount Cabot. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.